EVERTON manager David Moyes may have another talented young Irishman in his sights – Derry City’s James McClean.

EVERTON manager David Moyes may have another talented young Irishman in his sights – Derry City’s James McClean.

Moyes has already scored a notable success in bringing Seamus Coleman to Goodison from Sligo Rovers for a bargain £60,000.

Now McClean Šis emerging as a potential summer target after attracting interest from West Ham United and Blackpool.

The 22-year-old from the Creggan area of Derry has notched 18 goals in 82 appearances for his hometown club and is described by manager Stephen Kenny as “an exciting prospect for the future.”

McClean says he is keen to make the move across the Irish Sea to build a career in England. He insists he knows little about a reported £400,000 approach from Blackpool.

However a move to established Premier League club like Everton is likely to hold extra appeal to the former Northern Ireland under 21 international.

McClean said: “There have been quite a few rumours flying around over recent weeks regarding my future, but no one has said anything to me officially. Until that becomes the case, I want to concentrate on improving and playing well for Derry.

“Every player wants to improve and play at the highest level possible and I’m no different.

“I feel I’ve been playing well this season in the (Irish) Premier Division which was always going to be a test for me having come through the First Division the previous season.

“Obviously, I’m still learning and still trying to improve my game and should an offer come in for me from a good club, then I would certainly sit up, take advice on the matter and move on.

“I’ve heard stories about scouts watching me from West Ham, Reading and Burnley among others, but I’ve heard nothing.

“I’ve read my name associated with some of those clubs on the internet, but I’ve been told nothing and, as I’ve said, until I do, I will continue trying to improve with Derry City.”

Moyes signed Coleman from under the noses of Burnley back in February 2009. The defender from Donegal has since made 47 senior appearances for Everton, scoring six goals and signed a four and a half year contract in November of last year.

Everton have confirmed they have agreed a season-long loan deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Eric Dier.

The 17-year-old centre-back spent the second half of last season on loan at Goodison Park, featuring prominently for the club’s under-18s side.

He featured in the National Academy League final back in May, as Everton defeated Fulham in dramatic circumstances.

And Goodison boss David Moyes has now secured the highly-rated teenager for at least another 12 months – his first signing of a low-key summer so far.

Cheltenham-born Dier signed professional terms with the Liga Sagres giants in April 2010, despite reports of interest from Arsenal and Manchester United.